For Elanga, there was little to lose.
Sweden trailed the Netherlands 4-0 when the substitute was introduced in their second World Cup group match.
Within four minutes, the 24-year-old raced clear and capped a blistering counter with a goal.
He carried that surge into a starting role against Japan, cutting inside before curling in an equaliser for Sweden.
Sweden ultimately exited in the last 32 after a 3-0 defeat to France, yet Elanga again earned plaudits, the tournament showcasing flashes of what his pace and directness can bring.
Former Newcastle and Sweden team-mate Emil Krafth believes he’s a player who can turn a match on its head.
Elanga showed that at Nottingham Forest, but adapting to a more intricate setup at Newcastle proved challenging, even after a full pre-season.
There were glimpses of his potential.
He struck twice at the Nou Camp in the Champions League knockout rounds.
At St James’ Park, his speed unsettled the defences of Liverpool and Barcelona, though his crosses went unconverted by team-mates.
Consistency, however, was elusive—particularly against low blocks—and his £55m move came with some bruising moments.
Yet the Swede remains undeterred.
According to a source close to him, failure simply isn’t something he allows himself to contemplate.
He has a recent blueprint to follow.
Despite prior Premier League experience, Anthony Gordon also needed time to settle at Newcastle after his 2023 move from Everton.
Keen to impress, Gordon frequently asked those in the dressing room how he could improve.
He became more assured in possession, sharpened his decision-making in the final third, and kicked on after a confidence-boosting England Under-21 Euros.
Krafth sees similarities with Elanga’s path.
He expects Elanga’s second season to be different: better prepared, clear on what awaits him, and more in tune with the manager’s demands.